Talbott, Santa Lucia Highlands (Monterey County, California) Pinot Noir 2011

Talbott’s winemaking team clearly kept the best grapes from the Sleepy Hollow Vineyard for this, their flagship wine.  Bigger still than their Logan bottling, it nonetheless remains balanced with a glorious combination of power and charm.  Intriguing savory notes appear in its incredibly long finish.  Nicely structured, the tannins and acidity are harmonious and suggest a long future although it’s so easy to enjoy now I fear few bottles will remain in anyone’s cellar.    Talbott has captured the all too elusive character of Pinot Noir — flavor without weight — in this bottling.  This is great California Pinot Noir at a remarkable price for what it is.